Maker: Asai & O'Malley (collaboration) (click to see more by this maker)Item num: 91794*** This is handmade and one-of-a-kind ***Blade length: 4.20 in.Total length: 8.60 in.Blade width: 1.40 in.Blade thickness: 0.06 in.Item weight: 3.20 oz.Shipment weight: 4.7 oz.Blade: Deeply etched stainless nickel Damascus san mai with SG2 powdered metallurgical stainless steel, Rc 64-65Bolster: Satin finished pinned steel bolsterHandle: Russian walnut burlDescription: This one-of-a-kind knife is a collaboration between bladesmiths Asai and Daniel O'Malley. During one of his visits in Japan, Mr. O'Malley met with Asai to discuss the possibility of working on a series of collaborative knives. Asai would forge and finish the blade. Mr. O'Malley would finish the knife with deluxe handles better fit for the Western market.
This small chef's knife is perfect for detailed tasks and chopping. The 4 inch blade is easily controlled for the most difficult cuts yet the tall height gives plenty of finger clearance when working over a cutting board.
The blade was hand-forged beginning with an SG powdered metallurgical (PM) stainless steel core (hagane). The smaller crystalline size of this PM steel results in superior edge holding when compared to nearly any stainless steel. The central core is surrounded by many layers of deeply etched nickel Damascus. These many layers of steel result in a surface that helps food release from the knife's side when cut. This time consuming process creates a stunning blade with outstanding edge holding. The blade is distal tapered for optimal balance and has an extremely thin, keen edge for superlative performance. Both the spine and choil are nicely rounded for comfort.
The handle was formed from stabilized Russian walnut burl. The dark wood has a lovely grain pattern that nicely complements the suminagashi pattern of the blade. The handle has been formed from a single piece of wood, ensuring the grain pattern continues across the tang. The handle is profiled so as to be very comfortable and provide a secure hold. The handle swells at the palm, encouraging a pinch grip, moves into a slimmer waist, and swells again as it approaches the beak. Two brass hidden bolt rivets and a complex mosaic pin secure the scales to the full tang. The have been profiled to match the wood. The mosaic pin combines copper and brass. This knife feels as good as it looks.Availability: Not currently available